Fit for Surgery, Fit for Life is designed to support people on a healthy lifestyle journey prior to elective hip and knee surgery. The goal is to provide the tools to understand nutrition and exercise that’s right for you.

How does it work?

Fit for Surgery, Fit for Life is a collaborative programme with Te Whatu Ora Whanganui that provides a service prioritising wellness and wellbeing, allowing individuals to be at the centre of their own care plan. The individualised programme supports clients to bring about a change that will see them reduce their weight, and lift their fitness levels for surgery while continuing to maintain these changes for life.

Meeting with the navigator is the start of your journey. Together, you will create a plan that includes ways to get active and what works for you in terms of nutritional changes. The navigator is your motivator and advisor and can refer you to other support services which include a dietitian, physiotherapist, activity coordinator or a psychologist.

We understand that your plan requires commitment. The navigator will help keep you on track through regular catch up appointments. The navigator will provide over the phone support, too.

How can I get involved?

The first step is to arrange a referral. Your doctor can refer you to the programme. Once the Active Wellbeing team receive the referral you will receive a call to arrange for you to meet the Fit for Surgery navigator at Sport Whanganui.

Meet the navigator

Ceinwen Pa’a is a registered nurse who has a passion for helping people. Have questions about the Fit for Surgery programme? Contact Ceinwen on 06 3492507.


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